Orioles Claim Weston Wilson Off Waivers

The Baltimore Orioles have made a savvy move by claiming utilityman Weston Wilson off waivers from the Philadelphia Phillies, while designating left-hander José Suarez for assignment. This transaction, reported by Ari Alexander of 7 News, showcases the Orioles' aggressive approach to roster management.

Weston Wilson's Background

Wilson, 31, was designated for assignment by the Phillies last week following their re-signing of J.T. Realmuto. Over the past three seasons, Wilson has seen action in the major leagues, posting a combined .242/.328/.428 batting line with nine home runs in 245 plate appearances. However, most of his production came in 2023 and 2024, as he struggled in 2025.

Wilson's Performance

Wilson's hitting has been inconsistent, particularly against right-handed pitching. In 2023 and 2024, he feasted on southpaws, but his performance took a significant dip in 2025. Despite this, Wilson maintains a solid career .250/.359/.475 batting line against left-handed pitching. His versatility is a significant asset, as he has played all around the diamond, primarily as a corner infielder or outfielder.

Triple-A Production

In nearly 1700 plate appearances at the Triple-A level, Wilson has posted a respectable .247/.339/.462 line. This consistent performance in the minor leagues underscores his potential value to the Orioles as a depth player.

Impact on the Orioles

The Orioles are known for their aggressive waiver claims and subsequent roster management. By claiming Wilson, the team gains a righty-swinging depth player who can fill in at all four corner positions. However, Wilson is out of minor league options, which complicates his chances of sticking on the roster. He will need to make the Opening Day roster or risk being designated for assignment once again.

Future Outlook for Wilson

Given the Orioles' recent waiver activity, it is not surprising that Wilson could be designated for assignment in the near future. The team often uses waivers to cultivate depth and manage their roster effectively. If Wilson is indeed designated, the Orioles hope to outright him to Triple-A, keeping him as depth.

José Suarez's Situation

Alongside Wilson's claim, the Orioles have designated José Suarez for assignment. Suarez was claimed off waivers just one week ago from the Atlanta Braves, who had signed him to a $900K deal to avoid arbitration. With no minor league options remaining, the Orioles are exploring options to stash Suarez in Triple-A as depth.

Suarez's Performance

Injuries limited Suarez to 19 1/3 innings in the 2025 season, where he posted a 1.86 ERA. While his strikeout-to-walk ratio was less impressive, Suarez has a career 5.30 ERA over 396 innings. His performance with the Angels in 2021 and 2022 was notably strong, with a 3.86 ERA and a 21.5% strikeout rate.

Resolution of Suarez's DFA

The Orioles have five days to resolve Suarez's designation for assignment. They can either trade him or place him on outright waivers. His situation will be resolved by next Thursday afternoon, as waivers are a 48-hour process.

Conclusion

The Orioles' claim of Weston Wilson off waivers and the subsequent designation of José Suarez reflect the team's strategic approach to roster management. Wilson's versatility and production against left-handed pitching make him a valuable addition, while Suarez's situation highlights the complexities of waiver claims and roster moves in MLB. As the season approaches, these transactions could play a significant role in shaping the Orioles' success.